How to Check the Balance on a Gift Card

Have you ever been at a cash register and wondered how much you had left on a gift card? As popular as these cards are, few of them make it clear what the balance is from the start, much less after you use it a few times. There are three main ways to find out the balance, which will save you the embarrassment of having a cashier tell you have little or no credit left.

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How to Check the Balance on a Gift Card

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Step

Ask the clerk at the store where you are shopping to check your gift card balance. Not all stores will have this option, but many can run the card through as a debit, which will reveal the balance.

Step

Check your gift card balance online. Usually, a person who is new to a website will be asked to create a user name and password, to ensure safety of the gift card. You will be asked for your card number, and any expiration date if one exists. With this information, you will be able to access your remaining gift card value on line.

Step

Call the number listed on the back of the card. The representative will be able to tell you what amount is remaining if you can provide the gift card number.